When I tell people what I do for a living, they nod knowingly but I know the truth. People have no idea what “headhunters” really do. The label conjures images of short, hairy people with spears out looking for the perfect specimen of nuclear engineer who will let nothing stand in the way of bagging the big catch.

That all sounds very glamorous but frankly, a bit far-fetched. We are really about relationships, balance and respect.

It’s kind of like being the host of a big dating game. We listen to the hiring manager and learn about the kind of person they are looking for. We ask a lot of questions about the situation, previous relationships, places where possible candidates might be hanging out and so on.

Then we start researching. We sift through resume databases. We talk to people who know other people. While we are doing this, we are watching for patterns and styles that are going to fit well with what the client needs.

When things begin to line up, introductions are made. The first interview is really a blind date. We hope it goes better than the one with your neighour’s cousin, but it’s the same kind of thing.

If that first date goes well, then the next step is like going on a dinner date – something a little more formal, perhaps with some other people in the group, maybe you get a tour afterwards.

And if all of that falls into place and both parties are presenting balanced and enthusiastic feedback, then you start the process of meeting the in-laws, looking at the dowry and begin to plan the wedding.

Notice there was no mention of spearing, yelling or shoving? Recruiting is about making people’s work lives better and at it’s best, it’s done with the highest level of care and respect.